No Downside to “The Upside”

“The Upside” is a lightly comedic drama directed by Neil Burger who also directed “Limitless” (2011) and the “Divergent” series (2012-2014). The film is a remake of the French film, “The Intouchables,” and is the fourth of its kind to emulate the life of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo.

The film follows Philip Lacasse, (portrayed by Bryan Cranston) a billionaire writer who becomes paralyzed from the neck down following a paragliding accident. Lacasse’s assistant Yvonne (Nicole Kidman) interviews a host of candidates to find a live-in caretaker for him when they come across the unorthodox Dell Scott.

Scott, a recent parolee, is in search for a job but has no desire to be subservient to anyone. Lacasse and Scott become entangled as the former hires the convict, much to the behest of Yvonne who monitors Scott’s handling of Lacasse with watchful eyes. The plot of the movie and its message purport acceptance, second chances and the intangible gift of life.

“The Upside” brings an element of reality to the silver screen that is jarring and mouth dropping from the performances each actor lends. @fandango

The characters are fresh and fleshed out, with motives that compel the audience to crave more for each arc with which they are presented. The characters are not gleefully living their lives but experiencing heartache and genuine issues, forcing a level of empathy that the audience cannot avoid.

Kevin Hart is not his stereotypical arc where he is funny and struggling to be serious. Instead, Hart is stoic and has a comedic element that gives his arc substance. Cranston, who is a seasoned actor, is compelling as a person with quadriplegia, as we feel his pain (or lack thereof) and see the world as he sees it- both good and bad. Together, the actors show something onscreen that speaks to the level of friendship they both fostered offscreen and is telling of the growth Hart has experienced through working with the cast.

The plot is fostered through the actors and the weight of the story that compels them, reaching immediate viewers as something that could happen to them at any point. The failed father in Kevin Hart, the single struggling mother arc of his ex-girlfriend, the person that uses a wheelchair and is unable to express themselves fully in tandem with the pain of losing a loved one resonates most with moviegoers.

Critic reviews are mixed with movie aggregates. Rotten Tomatoes have the film at 39 percent out of 100 percent with the audience score sitting firmly at 88 percent as of Jan. 21. Market Research firm released the poll of the movie of audience goers who class the movie as an “A” on the A+ to F scoring range.

The movie critics argue that although the chemistry between Hart and Cranston is good, they are not new characters to the silver screen. While their comments are true, it does not substantiate, in my opinion, the low score given by any with the remark, as all character arcs are rooted somewhat in the journey of the hero presented by Joseph Campbell.

The film creates a view for audiences that engages them early in the film and compels them to continue watching. @variety

The film is not left without controversy as Twitter users have lambasted the film for not having an actual person with quadriplegia in the role of Phillip Lacasse. The uproar caught the attention of The Daily Show host, Trevor Noah, who cites the attention given to the argument.

Noah cited the remarks of a self-claimed quadriplegic who wrote that when roles such as Cranston’s show up, he sees it as an opportunity to shine as he has the tools necessary to supply the character. It brings into the realm of conversation how vital representation is in films, as no more accurate representation could be found than in someone that lives an experience every day.

Despite the reviews of the critics, audiences have enjoyed the portrayal of this true story, and it is deserving of the praises that it has received thus far. Overall, the movie receives 5/5 paws for a movie well executed.

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